Christmas in Antarctica (Greg Mortimer)

‘Tis the season . . . to be in Antarctica! Enjoy the ultimate White Christmas on a special celebratory season voyage. Penguin chicks hatch, skuas are on alert, and late-bloomers try to finish off their nests. With 24 hours of daylight, we pack in continental landings, visits to historic sites and scientific stations, and perhaps an after-dinner Zodiac cruise. You could share protected channels with minke and humpback whales, kayak amongst ice floes and drift near curious wildlife or sleep like a true Antarctic explorer when you camp out on the ice!

17 December, 2019 to 29 December, 2019

Prices quoted here are often dependent on currency fluctuations. Please check with (01432 507450 or info@small-cruise-ships.com) for the very latest price, which may well be cheaper than the one advertised here.

Prices quoted here are often dependent on currency fluctuations. Please check with (01432 507450 or info@small-cruise-ships.com) for the very latest price, which may well be cheaper than the one advertised here.

Christmas in Antarctica (Greg Mortimer) itinerary:

show reverse itinerary

Day 1 – Ushuaia

Enjoy a warm, late afternoon welcome from our friendly expedition team and Russian crew. You'll have time to settle into your cabin and explore the ship before our evening departure. Excitement lifts as we lift anchor and set sail down the Beagle Channel, keeping watch for Magellanic penguins, dolphins and albatross. Please note: We recommend you arrive into Ushuaia at least one day prior to your departure start date to avoid issues with flight and luggage delays. A luggage transfer from your Ushuaia hotel to ship is included today. Ushuaia port is a short walking distance from your town; you are required to make your own way to port in time for boarding this afternoon. Your voyage has one night's accommodation included prior to embarkation.

Days 2 to 3 – Drake Passage

Fall in love with gliding albatross or the heroics of tiny storm petrels as we cross the Drake Passage. Outer decks and our warm bridge offer excellent bird watching and our naturalist’s informative talks, safety and environmental guidelines prepare us for our Antarctic landings. We have time to meet fellow travellers, relax and prepare for the days ahead. Keen eyes watch for icebergs, and the appearance of penguins and seals in the waters around us herald our first landing in the South Shetland Islands.

Days 4 to 9 – Antarctic Peninsula

If weather permits, early risers are rewarded with spectacular views of ice-clad mountains along the Danco Coast, then soaring Anvers Island as we reach the Antarctic Peninsula. Over the next six days we explore penguin rookeries, historic sites and scientific stations and celebrate Christmas with our expedition 'family' in one of the most beautiful places on Earth. In Zodiacs, we cruise amongst an iceberg fantasia, where seals bask on floes and our kayakers glide into secluded bays. Off the ship is where we like to be, even camping out one night if conditions allow. Thanks to the small number of people on board, spontaneity and flexibility is possible, enhanced enjoyment the result.

Day 10 to 11 – Drake Passage

As the Captain steers the ship north across Drake Passage, our minds and souls revel in rich Antarctic experiences. There’s time to watch for seabirds, enjoy entertaining talks, discuss what we’ve seen and learned, exchange photos and stories. With luck, we may make a ceremonial rounding of Cape Horn before sharing a farewell dinner with our newfound friends.

Day 12-13 – Ushuaia

Disembarkation in Ushuaia.

Please Note:

Please note that all of our itineraries are at the mercy of weather conditions and not all landings are guaranteed. Our itineraries are flexible and will change voyage to voyage, allowing the best chance to make the most of surprising wildlife displays and unexpected opportunities.

Christmas in Antarctica (Greg Mortimer) reverse itinerary:

show main itinerary

Please note that all of our itineraries are at the mercy of weather conditions and not all landings are guaranteed. Our itineraries are flexible and will change voyage to voyage, allowing the best chance to make the most of surprising wildlife displays and unexpected opportunities.

Disembarkation in Ushuaia.

As the Captain steers the ship north across Drake Passage, our minds and souls revel in rich Antarctic experiences. There’s time to watch for seabirds, enjoy entertaining talks, discuss what we’ve seen and learned, exchange photos and stories. With luck, we may make a ceremonial rounding of Cape Horn before sharing a farewell dinner with our newfound friends.

If weather permits, early risers are rewarded with spectacular views of ice-clad mountains along the Danco Coast, then soaring Anvers Island as we reach the Antarctic Peninsula. Over the next six days we explore penguin rookeries, historic sites and scientific stations and celebrate Christmas with our expedition 'family' in one of the most beautiful places on Earth. In Zodiacs, we cruise amongst an iceberg fantasia, where seals bask on floes and our kayakers glide into secluded bays. Off the ship is where we like to be, even camping out one night if conditions allow. Thanks to the small number of people on board, spontaneity and flexibility is possible, enhanced enjoyment the result.

Fall in love with gliding albatross or the heroics of tiny storm petrels as we cross the Drake Passage. Outer decks and our warm bridge offer excellent bird watching and our naturalist’s informative talks, safety and environmental guidelines prepare us for our Antarctic landings. We have time to meet fellow travellers, relax and prepare for the days ahead. Keen eyes watch for icebergs, and the appearance of penguins and seals in the waters around us herald our first landing in the South Shetland Islands.

Enjoy a warm, late afternoon welcome from our friendly expedition team and Russian crew. You'll have time to settle into your cabin and explore the ship before our evening departure. Excitement lifts as we lift anchor and set sail down the Beagle Channel, keeping watch for Magellanic penguins, dolphins and albatross. Please note: We recommend you arrive into Ushuaia at least one day prior to your departure start date to avoid issues with flight and luggage delays. A luggage transfer from your Ushuaia hotel to ship is included today. Ushuaia port is a short walking distance from your town; you are required to make your own way to port in time for boarding this afternoon. Your voyage has one night's accommodation included prior to embarkation.

* = Indicative

Greg Mortimer

Vessel Type: Expedition

Length: 104 metres

Passenger Capacity: 120

Built: 2018

Capable of negotiating the strongest winds and waves, the Greg Mortimer is built to world-class polar standards – designed in close consultation with our expedition specialists, taking advantage of our more than 25 years of experience.

The Greg Mortimer redefines expedition cruising for the future, with just 120 passengers on board in the polar regions. Not only is the ship bigger to contend with adverse weather conditions, its added creature comforts make for a more enjoyable journey out on the open ocean. The Greg Mortimer remains true to our ethos and focus on multiple landings, flexible itineraries and family atmosphere – just with an improved home base!

As a modern and custom-designed ship, the Greg Mortimer is at the cutting edge of nautical technology. Robust, powerful and built with our guests in mind, this ship marks a significant investment in our fleet's capabilities. From the European Arctic to the depths of Antarctica, and other far-flung destinations in-between, the Greg Mortimer will make your journey a breeze!

Greg Mortimer X-BOWX-BOW™

Our expeditions face some of the worst Mother Nature can throw at us. However, this won't be problem on the Greg Mortimer with the introduction of the patented X-BOW™, created by Norwegian ship designer ULSTEIN. As one of the leaders in marine engineering, ULSTEIN's X-BOW™ is an inverted bow concept that's been built on over 100 vessels in the shipping industry. Excitingly, we are the first expedition cruise operator to utilise this technology for the challenging open ocean waves!

Hydraulic viewing platforms

Although there is no doubt that you'll love the aesthetics of the Greg Mortimer, we are all here to admire the spectacular landscape and spot the elusive wildlife in their natural habitat. To ensure you get the best views possible, the new ship features unique viewing platforms, custom-built for the Greg Mortimer. Accessed from Deck 5, the two platforms fold out hydraulically for unobstructed views of passing marine life and seabirds – make sure your camera is locked and loaded!

Zodiac launching platform

Zodiacs are a vital part of getting up close and personal on your adventure – sneaking into areas that the Greg Mortimer can't reach. On this new ship, there are specially designed launching platforms that enables us to load Zodiacs easily and quickly, allowing you to spend more time exploring on the two to three daily landings. There are 15 Zodiacs that are boarded from either side of Deck 3 (sea level), perfect for when there is a group of fluffy cute penguin chicks that we need a photo of!

Activity Platform

Regardless of your destination, we offer a number of additional activities to allow you to see more of the environment. From kayaking and diving to climbing and ski touring, it's these optional activities that often leave the biggest impression on your trip as a whole. Onboard the Greg Mortimer, there is a spacious prep and loading platform for these activities and more – designed in consultation with our expert activity guides.

Environmentally friendly

Climate change and carbon emissions continue to be major issues that everyone needs to be aware of and actively managing. This includes reduced emissions into the air and sea, lower energy consumption, high fuel efficiency, reduced light pollution for minimal wildlife disruption and lower on-board plastic use. It's vital to also mention the state-of-the-art virtual anchoring technology of the X-BOW™, which means the ship can float anchorless while launching Zodiacs, kayaks etc, without disturbing delicate sea floor areas.

Safety features

This starts with the return-to-port equipment – not compulsory on a ship of this size – which duplicates the propulsion system. This enables the ship to maintain operating systems and comfort in the event of engine failure. Furthermore, the Greg Mortimer is Polar Code 6 compliant, holds BV class and is fully compliant with the latest SOLAS requirements. It's also built with a Rolls Royce stabiliser system. If there's an incident or accident during your adventure, the ship has an on-board, fully-stocked medical centre – where our trained medical team can provide necessary treatment in a timely fashion. Safety continues to be an issue that our team takes very serious and the Greg Mortimer allows us to create an environment where you can concentrate on the brilliant landscape and wildlife, without worrying about your wellbeing.

Ship Life

Greg Mortimer is designed to serve your every need. It's your bedroom, bathroom, lounge, dining room and even your observatory. Make yourself at home, the Greg Mortimer is yours to enjoy!

Observation Points

Let's face it – you don't want windowless rooms when travelling around some of the most beautiful locations around the world. This is why the Greg Mortimer is designed with plenty of dedicated observation spaces – ideal for keen bird spotters, wildlife watchers and those wanting to watch the scenery go past. From the indoor 180-degree lounge and outdoor 360-degree open deck, both on deck 8, to the 270-degree open sundeck on level 7, there are plenty of observation points to share around the ship! If these are full, then you can take up a spot on one of the two hydraulic viewing platforms on deck 5. Aurora Expeditions also has an open bridge policy, which means at any point you can come up to the bridge and check out what the captain and officers are up to. From watching navigational practices to observing mapping techniques, you can get a firsthand look at the inner workings of the Greg Mortimer.

Shore excursions

Although the ship is fun, the real enjoyment comes from the many shore excursions that are available. Depending on the weather and itinerary, it's possible to take two to three landings daily, taking a look at everything from rock formations and ancient ruins to cute groups of penguins. We know time is of the essence in these wild locations, so the Greg Mortimer has been designed with 15 Zodiacs, which means you can maximise your time on shore. From four dedicated sea level launching platforms, transfers are quicker, safer and enable you to get closer to the action for a longer period of time. Just remember to charge your camera before you step onto the Zodiac!

Activity options

From kayaking and skiing to diving and climbing, these are one-in-a-lifetime opportunities that you need to take advantage of. Aboard the Greg Mortimer there is a specially designed launching platform for all activities, a concept overseen by our activity experts. This area also includes individual lockers in the expansive mudroom and rapid drying areas for wetsuits so you can quickly get warm after exploring in the elements!

Dining

From the moment you step onto the Greg Mortimer, we aim to give you the best hospitality service possible. Starting with the official Captain's welcome, as our guests, you're welcome to 24 hours complimentary coffee, tea and snack facilities in addition to the range of different menu options and courses for each meal. Meals are served in large dining room/restaurant with family style dining, perfect to swap stories with your new expedition family. Enjoy the range of house wine, beers and soft drinks included with dinner after a long day in the wild, preparing yourself for another exciting day to follow. On the last day of your trip, the team on the Greg Mortimer put on a special farewell four-course dinner and cocktails – a perfect way to reflect on your time on the ship and consolidate lifelong friendships with the people you've met on-board.

On-board entertainment

When you’re relaxing during a sea day or you have a little downtime on the ship between excursions, what is there to do onboard the Greg Mortimer? Plenty! On all our expeditions, there are experts who lead presentations in the spacious lecture room so you can understand the region a little better. These often include topics as broad as history and culture to biology and climate change, these presentations aim to educate and entertain. If you're keen to just watch the surroundings and keep your eyes peeled for wildlife, you have access to two bars/lounges where the stunning floor to ceiling windows offer a special perspective on the landscape. The Greg Mortimer is also decked out with other facilities for your enjoyment. There is a library on Deck 5 with books and maps and a Wellness Centre complete with gym equipment, sauna and spa. Feeling a little sore after walking around all day? Treat yourself to a massage at the Wellness Centre and feels the aches disappear! Keen photographers and artists will revel in the multimedia room on Deck 5.

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